Are you craving that crisp, tangy coleslaw you love from Captain D's? Forget the drive-through! This recipe lets you recreate that delicious homemade slaw right in your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy, incredibly flavorful, and a perfect side dish for fish, barbecue, or even just a simple weeknight dinner. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's also a healthy alternative to heavier side dishes. Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can whip up this Captain D's copycat recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke's for that authentic tang)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Start by washing and thoroughly drying the cabbage and carrot. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to shred them thinly. The finer the shred, the better the slaw will absorb the dressing.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely for a balanced sweetness.
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Combine and Chill: Add the shredded cabbage and carrot to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to chill. This step is crucial for the best taste and texture. The longer it sits (up to a few hours), the more flavorful it becomes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, your Captain D's-style coleslaw is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a delightful side dish with your favorite meal.
Tips for the Best Captain D's Slaw:
- Shredding is Key: Thinly shredded cabbage and carrots are essential for a good slaw. Thick pieces won't absorb the dressing properly.
- Don't Overmix: Gently toss the vegetables and dressing to avoid wilting the cabbage.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or mustard to your liking. Some prefer a sweeter slaw, while others prefer a tangier one.
- Add Some Zing: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Make it Ahead: This slaw is even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Creamy Slaw: For a creamier version, use a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Spicy Slaw: Add a diced jalapeño or some chopped fresh chili peppers for a spicy twist.
- Rainbow Slaw: Add other shredded vegetables like red cabbage, bell peppers, or shredded zucchini for a colorful and nutritious slaw.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on mayonnaise used)
- Fat: Around 12-15g
- Protein: Around 2g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
- Fiber: Around 2g
This easy, delicious, and healthy Captain D's slaw recipe is a winner for any occasion. It's a simple side dish that everyone will love! Enjoy!